On December 1st, United Way of Wayne County celebrated those who gave their Fair Share this year by giving away $10,000 to one lucky finalist at their finale event at St. Paul Church in downtown Goldsboro.
Since August of this year, names have been randomly selected from the pool of Fair Share Investors for a chance to win big for their efforts in giving back to the community. “A Fair Share Investor is someone who invests in their community through United Way with a minimum of one hour’s pay per month for a year,” explained Sherry Archibald, Executive Director. “This year, 21 finalists were selected at random from all Fair Share Investors to be entered into a final drawing for $10,000,” Archibald said. It is important to note that no investor dollars were used as prize money.
One-by-one, the finalists tried their keys to find out if they would be the one to unlock the “Golden Barrel” containing the prize money. Not too long after the program began, and after only one person tried their key with no luck, Shenita King, of Anchor Coupling, stepped up. You could see hers and Perry’s surprise when she slid her key into the lock and heard that quiet “POP!”. After removing the padlock, King was showered with $10,000 (fake) cash!!
In addition to the $10,000 Giveaway, United Way of Wayne County also recognized five educators who also pledged their Fair Share and were randomly drawn to receive a $500 Classroom Grant to use in their classroom at their discretion. Anita Sanders from Brogden Middle School, Shelia Sutton from Edgewood School, Jennifer Breeze from Eastern Wayne High School, and Veronica Fordham-McCoy and Jackie Lewis from Spring Creek Elementary School were all presented with a check at last night’s event. They also recognized one school that donated $30 per capita with a $5,000 School Grant. The recipient of that grant this year was Dillard Middle School. Principal Mario Re was there to receive the check and pose for a photo. United Way of Wayne County has such a strong partnership with Wayne County Schools and works diligently to help our educators improve the educational experience for our children. We are forever grateful for these educators that continue to support their community through United Way.
During last night’s program, Bethany Perry, United Way of Wayne County’s Community Campaign Chair said, “It has been such a privilege volunteering full-time with United Way since 2019. I have seen the great needs in this community, those working hard to create and foster the care necessary to strengthen our community, and the generous individuals who invest. I have also seen the countless lives impacted and empowered because of the generosity and selflessness you all have displayed by investing your Fair Share. Our 2022 campaign goal is to raise $850,000.00 and strengthen the lives of more than 17,000 people. We knew this year was going to be a challenge but the community in Wayne County has come together in many ways to help us reach that goal. I am happy to report that we are currently at 83% raising $705,500 improving the lives of 14,110 people across Wayne County. We are striving for 100% and invite you to contact us to help meet our goal!”
Investments to United Way of Wayne County can be made through an employer or on a personal basis. To make a contribution, contact your employer or send a check or pledge to PO Box 10893, Goldsboro, NC 27532. Or visit www.unitedwayne.org.
